Pow Wow Cafe – 213 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L4
Seating: Limited indoor and outdoor space
Must-try dish: Jumbo Scone Dog

We thought it was fitting to kick-off our culinary adventure with the foods native to North America, which took us to the heart of  Kensington Market in Toronto for a corn dog and some tacos rocking an Ojibwe twist. 

Although the space doesn’t seem like much at first glance, don’t let yourself be fooled, as what Pow Wow Cafe lacks in aesthetics, it easily makes up with in food, friendliness, and good vibes. The absence of any pretension actually makes the spot more appealing. 

We spent barely any time in the cozy interior because all the action seemed to be outside on the small patio, which made an excellent seat to perch and people watch the eclectic scenes that make up the area’s landscape. 

The sense of being immersed in a neighborhood atmosphere only increased with the introduction of our server who seemed to know every passerby by name. Luckily she was also friendly to us by narrowing down our choices from the menu.  

Despite the menu only offering a handful of items, it was daunting nonetheless since everything sounded incredible. We knew we would have to return for a second round. 

The majority of the dishes included bannock – a fried flatbread consisting of flour and water that has been widely used in North American Indigenous cuisine for generations.  We opted for the corn dog wrapped in bannock that was served with cranberry mustard and sage ketchup to start, followed by a beef taco served in a traditional style and a seafood taco loaded with salmon and mussels. 

The corn dog came out on top (it was the best corn dog we have ever tasted), perhaps because it was a pleasant surprise, but both tacos were spectacular, especially the seafood one. It was delivered to us with a mountain of salmon and mussels coated with plenty of dill. 

Word on the street is that Pow Wow Cafe serves an unbeatable brunch daily, so pack some cash and make your way to Kensington Market!

If you aren’t already convinced, creep their Facebook and Instagram pages. 

Eat with you soon, 

Mandrea Bike
(Mat & Andrea)